Hooper will helm and will play main character Lyra, an orphan, who lives in a parallel universe. Scheduling has been worked out so he can do this and the planned live-action adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical “Cats” at Universal and Working Title.

“Wonder” writer Jack Thorne penned the adaptation which blends physics, philosophy and theology in a story of parallel universes, witches and armored polar bears.

The property was previously adapted for the screen as “The Golden Compass” in 2007 but this one is said to be much more loyal and darker in tone, along with being one of the most expensive British dramas to date.

Bad Wolf, New Line Cinema for BBC One will produce while Apple and Netflix are among the suitors for the U.S. and global rights. Production begins shortly in Wales.